Language and Translation Policy (ASF-OPS-007)

V3.0 — Official language hierarchy (English authoritative), authoritative/working translation designations, 5 interpreter obligations, CAP bilingual submission rules, 6 references

1. Purpose

This policy establishes the languages in which ASF’s standards and governance documents are published, the language in which surveys are conducted, and the conditions under which translations are used in the accreditation process.

2. Official Languages

ASF’s official languages are French and English. All governance documents and accreditation standards are published authoritatively in English. French versions are non-authoritative translations. Where versions conflict, the English version prevails. All materials prepared for ISQua EEA are in English.

3. Standards Translation

Where ASF publishes a translation into another language, it is: (a) produced by a qualified translator with healthcare accreditation expertise; (b) reviewed by a subject-matter expert with native proficiency; (c) version-controlled with the same document code and source version noted; and (d) updated within 6 months of each new English major version. Translations are designated Authoritative (formally reviewed — may be used as basis for assessment) or Working (practical use only; English source is definitive for interpretation questions). Status is marked on the document and on france-asf.fr.

4. Survey Language

The survey is conducted in a language in which the Lead Surveyor is proficient and the facility’s key personnel can communicate effectively. Where required, ASF arranges a qualified interpreter. Interpreters must: be professionally qualified or demonstrably bilingual; have no relationship with the facility affecting impartiality; complete a Declaration of Impartiality and Confidentiality Undertaking before the survey; interpret accurately without editorialising; and not contribute to assessment findings. Interpreter costs are borne by the facility unless the need arises from ASF-side constraints.

5. Survey Report and Decision Documents

The survey report, decision notification, and certificate are issued in English. The CAP may be submitted in the facility’s working language but must be accompanied by an English translation, which is the version used for formal assessment.

6. ISQua EEA Alignment

Supports ISQua EEA Principle 3 (Transparency — accessible standards) and Principle 5 (Surveyors — language requirements). The ASF ISQua EEA Crosswalk (ASF-EV-004) maps these provisions to the applicable EEA criteria.

Document code: ASF-OPS-007  ·  Version: V3.0  ·  Effective: 2026-09-30  · 
All governance documents

Download the approved document

ASF-OPS-007 — Language and Translation Policy · Version V3.0

Download PDF Full ASF Standards Package 2026